> For the complete documentation index, see [llms.txt](https://docs.lightpost.app/llms.txt). Markdown versions of documentation pages are available by appending `.md` to page URLs; this page is available as [Markdown](https://docs.lightpost.app/add-on-features/online-giving.md).

# Online Giving

Lightpost currently has opted for a self-managed payment processor model for enabling online giving for your congregation.  This means that payments go directly to your own Stripe.com payment processor account.

## General Information

* Online giving is only available for logged-in members of your congregation (guest giving is on the roadmap).
* The Recurring giving feature is optional and not required.  It currently allows giving automatically every Sunday.
* Giving is available for **credit/debit cards** and **bank accounts (ACH).** You can configure which of these options you want to enable for your congregation.  The fee structure is different for each method.

## Available Reports

* **Contribution Report**
  * A full report of who gave what and when.
* **Payout (Deposit) Report**
  * A full report of deposits to your bank account and what contributions make up that deposit.
* **End of Year Contribution Letters**
  * The ability to create and make contribution letters accessible to your congregation.
  * Note: If only Online Giving is enabled, this report will only consist of electronic contributions done through Lightpost.  For a full accounting of checks/cash, the Financial Management feature is needed.

## Finance Categories

You have the ability to add and enable/disable categories or "buckets" for members to select contributions to be directed to.

## Stripe Account Notes

* You create and own your own Stripe.com payment processor account for your congregation.
* You are responsible for completing the entire verification process for your Stripe.com account.  
  * Your payouts will be suspended unless you complete this process.
* Your first payout will take 5-7 business days from your first transaction.
* Payouts will happen on a rolling business day basis, unless you change this setting in Stripe.
* Stripe fees apply for failed payments.
* You are responsible for all fees from the payment processor.